System and device for affecting drag properties of an object

ABSTRACT

A vortex generator might be attached to various types of articles to reduce the drag. For example, vortex generators might be attached to a garment or to adhesive tape. In addition, vortex generators might be attached to various types of athletic equipment. A mapping can suggest placement of a vortex-generator arrangement on an article, as well as prescribe particular vortex-generator arrangements for regions of a person.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No.15/160,795, filed May 20, 2016. U.S. application Ser. No. 15/160,795claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/167,062(filed on May 27, 2015). Both of the aforementioned applications areincorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This application is related to affecting drag properties of an objectthat experiences motion.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In brief, and at a high level, this disclosure describes, among otherthings, a system of vortex generators that is applied to an object. Inaddition, this disclosure describes articles that are constructed toinclude vortex generators, including garment articles, tape, athleticequipment, and the like. Further, this disclosure describes avortex-generator structure, as well as methods of making vortexgenerators and coupling them to an article. This high-level overview isprovided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further describedbelow in the detailed-description section. This summary is not intendedto identify key features or essential features of the claimed subjectmatter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in isolation todetermine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is described in detail herein with reference tothe attached figures, which are incorporated herein by reference,wherein:

FIG. 1 depicts a first mapping of various vortex-generator patterns inaccordance with an aspect hereof;

FIG. 2 depicts a second mapping of various vortex-generator patterns inaccordance with an aspect hereof;

FIG. 3 depicts a third mapping of various vortex-generator patterns inaccordance with an aspect hereof;

FIG. 4 depicts a fourth mapping of various vortex-generator patterns inaccordance with an aspect hereof;

FIGS. 5A-5K depict various garments including vortex generators inaccordance with an aspect hereof;

FIG. 6A depicts a vortex-generator-enhanced tape in accordance with anaspect hereof;

FIG. 6B depicts a schematic, cross-sectional view of thevortex-generator-enhanced tape of FIG. 6A in accordance with an aspecthereof;

FIG. 7 depicts at least part of a vortex-generator kit in accordancewith an aspect hereof;

FIG. 8 illustratively conveys the application of the vortex-generatorkit of FIG. 7 based on a mapping in accordance with an aspect hereof;

FIG. 9 depicts a flow chart of a method for making avortex-generator-enhanced article in accordance with an aspect hereof;

FIG. 10A depicts a vortex generator in accordance with an aspect hereof;

FIG. 10B depicts a bottom elevation of the vortex generator depicted inFIG. 10A in accordance with an aspect hereof;

FIGS. 10C and 10D depict other views of the vortex generator depicted inFIGS. 10A and 10B in accordance with an aspect hereof;

FIG. 11 depicts another vortex generator in accordance with an aspecthereof;

FIG. 12 depicts another vortex generator in accordance with an aspecthereof;

FIG. 13 depicts another vortex generator in accordance with an aspecthereof:

FIG. 14 depicts a bottom elevation of the vortex generator depicted inFIG. 13 in accordance with an aspect hereof;

FIG. 15 depicts an arrangement of vortex generators in accordance withan aspect hereof;

FIG. 16 depicts a perspective view of the arrangement depicted in FIG.15 in accordance with an aspect hereof;

FIG. 17 depicts an exemplary arrangement of multiple sets of vortexgenerators in accordance with an aspect hereof; and

FIGS. 18A-18N each depicts a respective vortex-generator configurationin accordance with an aspect hereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The subject matter of aspects of the present invention is described withspecificity herein to meet statutory requirements. But the descriptionitself is not intended to necessarily limit the scope of claims. Rather,the claimed subject matter might be embodied or carried out in otherways to include different elements or combinations of elements similarto the ones described in this document, in conjunction with otherpresent or future technologies.

Overview

Vortex generators are sometimes attached to a surface of an object inorder to improve aerodynamic qualities and reduce drag. Often vortexgenerators are used in automotive or aircraft technologies. But othertypes of structures that experience movement can also benefit fromimproved aerodynamic qualities, such as articles associated with humanmovement and athletic equipment. experience

Various sporting or athletic events can be decided based on fractions ofa second or an inch. For example, in the 100 m sprint, track-and-fieldevent, mere hundredths of a second often separate one runner fromanother runner. Thus, the amount of drag that one athlete experiences,as compared with an opposing athlete, can have an affect the outcome ofan event. At a high level, this technology is related to reducing dragof an object that is subject to a motion by positioning one or morevortex generators on the object.

In one aspect, the technology includes a system of vortex generators(VG) that are positioned at various locations on an athlete's body. Forexample, the system might include one area or zone (e.g., distal portionof appendage) having a first arrangement of vortex generators andanother area or zone (e.g., torso) having a second arrangement of vortexgenerators. Each of the respective arrangements includes respectivearrangement properties that are selected for at least some of thebenefits of a vortex generator, while taking into account other factorsthat can affect athletic, equipment, and/or apparel performance (e.g.,weight, breathability, moisture management, and the like). Exemplaryarrangement properties can include a vortex-generator height, avortex-generator density, a size of the vortex-generator arrangement,and a shape of the vortex-generator arrangement.

In a further aspect, various apparatuses or devices might be used as avehicle or medium to apply a system of vortex generators to an athlete'sbody. For instance, vortex generators might be arranged on a garment(e.g., shirt-type garment, pant-type garment, arm sleeve, leg sleeve,footwear, headwear, handwear, and the like) that is worn by the athlete.A garment can be constructed to include a particular arrangement ofvortex generators that includes arrangement properties selected for aparticular zone (e.g., torso or forearm). As such, a set of garments(e.g., shirt, shorts, and sleeves) can be utilized to provide differentvortex-generator arrangements to different zones on an athlete. Inaddition, garments can be combined into a single garment (e.g., unitard)having different vortex-generator arrangements on different areas of thegarment. In another aspect, vortex generators might be arranged on anadhesive body, such as tape, which can then be selectively applied tovarious zones on an athlete's body. Similarly to a garment, a tape canbe constructed to include a particular arrangement of vortex generatorsthat includes arrangement properties selected for a particular zone(e.g., lateral shin zone), and the tape can be selectively applied basedon the arrangement. Tape that is constructed to include vortexgenerators may be applied to a garment or directly to a person's body.

Various types of vortex generators might be utilized in these systems.In one aspect, the vortex generator includes a vane having a dart-shapedconfiguration. In addition, the vane includes a surface that engages aboundary layer and that includes a simple-curved surface or acomplex-curved surface.

One aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a system forreducing drag on an object. The system includes a first vortex-generatorarrangement coupled to a first article and a second vortex-generatorarrangement coupled to a second article. The first vortex-generatorarrangement includes a first set of vortex generators having a firstsubstantially consistent spacing and a first substantially consistentvortex-generator height. The second vortex-generator arrangementincludes a second set of vortex generators having a second substantiallyconsistent spacing and a second substantially consistentvortex-generator height. The second substantially consistent spacing isdifferent than the first substantially consistent spacing and/or thesecond vortex-generator height is different than the firstvortex-generator height.

Another aspect of the disclosure is directed to a vortex-generator kit.The vortex-generator kit includes a first article having a firstvortex-generator arrangement and a second article comprising a secondvortex-generator arrangement. The first vortex-generator arrangementincludes a first set of vortex generators having a first substantiallyconsistent spacing and a first substantially consistent vortex-generatorheight. The second vortex-generator arrangement includes a second set ofvortex generators having a second substantially consistent spacing and asecond substantially consistent vortex-generator height. The first andsecond substantially consistent spacing and the first and secondsubstantially consistent vortex-generator height are based on avortex-generator mapping.

A further aspect of the present disclosure includes a vortex generatorhaving a base and a vane. The vane includes a bottom portion that has adart-polygon configuration and that is integrally formed with the base.The vane also includes a top surface that is generally concave. Thedart-polygon configuration includes a first convex portion, a secondconvex portion, a third convex portion, and a concave portion. Inaddition, an angle of the first convex portion is greater thanrespective angles of the second convex portion and the third convexportion, which are substantially similar.

In addition, the disclosure describes another vortex generator having avane. The vane includes a bottom portion having a dart-polygonconfiguration defined by at least four edges. The edges include a firstedge and a second edge that intersect at a first vertex to form a convexinterior angle, and a third edge and a fourth edge that intersect at asecond vertex to form a concave interior angle, wherein the first edgeand the third edge intersect at a third vertex and the second edge andthe fourth edge intersect at a fourth vertex. In addition, the vaneincludes a set of walls that extend from the at least four edges andthat comprise a first wall and a second wall that extend from the firstedge and the second edge, respectively, and that share a fifth edge,which intersects with the first edge and the second edge at the firstvertex. The first wall includes a first curved edge and the second wallincludes a second curved edge that intersects with the first curved edgeat a fifth vertex, which is joined to the first vertex by the fifthedge. The first curved edge intersects with the third vertex and thesecond curved edge intersects with the fourth vertex. The vane alsoincludes a third wall and a fourth wall that extend from the third edgeand the fourth edge, respectively, and that share a sixth edge, whichintersects with the third edge and the fourth edge at the second vertex.The third wall includes a third curved edge and the fourth wall includesa fourth curved edge that intersects with the third curved edge at asixth vertex, which is joined to the second vertex by the sixth edge.The third curved edge intersects with the third vertex and the fourthcurved edge intersects with the fourth vertex. The vane also includes atop surface that is generally concave and that is defined by the firstcurved edge, the second curved edge, the third curved edge, and thefourth curved edge.

This disclosure also describes a vortex-generator article including anarticle layer, a base that is coupled to the article layer, and a vane.The vane includes a bottom portion that has a dart-polygon configurationand that is integrally formed with the base. The vane also includes atop surface that is generally concave. The dart-polygon configurationincludes a midline that intersects with a convex portion of thedart-polygon configuration and with a concave portion of thedart-polygon configuration.

A further aspect of the present disclosure describes a vortex-generatorapplique. The vortex-generator applique includes a strip of materialhaving a first side and a second side and an adhesive layer applied tothe first side of the strip of material. One or more vortex generatorsare coupled to the second side of the first strip of material.

In an additional aspect, the present disclosure describes a kit foraffecting drag properties of an object. The kit includes a firstvortex-generator applique and a second vortex-generator applique. Thefirst vortex-generator applique includes a first strip of materialhaving a first vortex-generator side and a first adhesive side, as wellas a first adhesive layer applied to the first adhesive side of thefirst strip of material. In addition, the first vortex-generatorapplique includes a first set of one or more vortex generators coupledto the first vortex-generator side of the first strip of material, thefirst set of one or more vortex generators including a first pattern.The second vortex-generator applique includes a second strip of materialhaving a second vortex-generator side and a second adhesive side, aswell as a second adhesive layer applied to the second adhesive side ofthe second strip of material. In addition, the second vortex-generatorapplique includes a second set of one or more vortex generators coupledto the second vortex-generator side of the second strip of material, thesecond set of one or more vortex generators including a second patternthat is different from the first pattern.

Mapping Vortex-Generator Patterns

As indicated previously, one aspect of the present invention includes asystem of vortex generators that are arranged at various locationsrelative to an athlete's body. Referring now to FIGS. 1-4, differentmappings are illustrated that depict various possible arrangements ofvortex generators on a respective athlete (e.g., female or male)competing in a respective event (e.g., sprint-distance or at leastmedium-distance running-based event). Generally, each of the mappingsdepicted in FIGS. 1-4 includes different vortex-generator patternsprescribed to different human anatomical zones of the athlete. As usedin this description, the term “pattern” or “vortex-generator pattern”describes a set of vortex-generators having a substantially consistentset of properties, such as spacing between vortex generators andvortex-generator dimensions (e.g., height, width, length, shape, etc.).

In an aspect of the disclosure, a mapping suggests a vortex-generatorspacing and sizing that might be recommended for a particular type ofathlete competing in a particular type of event. For example, a mapping(e.g., 100, 200, 300, or 400) may suggest patterns recommended for aparticular body type or body-movement styles. As such, a mapping that issuggested for a body type may account for body-measurement ratios basedon height, body circumference, appendage length, appendagecircumference, and the like. In addition, a mapping that is suggestedfor a body-movement style may account for running style (e.g., moreupright as compared with more forward lean), jumping style, appendagespeed (e.g., lower-leg velocities, upper leg velocities, lower-armvelocities, upper-arm velocities, etc.), and the like. Although someportions of this disclosure describe that a mapping may be recommendedfor a female person, the mapping may also be recommended for a male, andvice versa. In addition, although some portions of this disclosuredescribe that a mapping may be recommended for a person engaging in atype of event, the mapping may be recommended for someone engaging inother types of events.

To further explain the use of patterns in FIG. 1-4, a pattern templateis depicted in an enlarged window 102 of FIG. 1 to illustrate that apattern might include a spacing based on a first distance 110 and asecond distance 112. For example, in the window 102 the pattern ofvortex generators includes a first row of vortex generators 108A and108B that are spaced the distance 110 apart from one another. Inaddition, in window 102 the pattern of vortex generators includes asecond row of vortex generators 106A, 106B, and 106C. In an aspect ofthe present invention, the second row of vortex generators 106A, 106B,and 106C is offset from the first row 108A and 108B and is spaced apartfrom the first row by the distance 112 that is substantially similar tothe distance 110. However, the vortex generators may not be offset. In afurther aspect, the pattern depicted in window 102 reflects that thevortex generators include a vortex-generator height 114 consistent amongthe pattern.

FIG. 1 depicts a first mapping 100 suggesting various patterns ofvortex-generator spacing and sizing that might be recommended for afemale athlete competing in a shorter or sprint-type event, and FIG. 2depicts a second mapping 200 suggesting various patterns ofvortex-generator spacing and sizing that might be recommended for afemale athlete competing in a medium-distance or longer-distance event.FIG. 3 depicts a third mapping 300 suggesting various patterns ofvortex-generator spacing and sizing that might be recommended for a maleathlete competing in a shorter or sprint-type event, and FIG. 4 depictsa fourth mapping 400 suggesting various patterns of vortex-generatorspacing and sizing that might be recommended for a male athletecompeting in a medium-distance or longer-distance event. In other words,these mappings provide suggested patterns of vortex generators thatcould be arranged on a male or female athlete engaging in a particulartype of event (e.g., sprint, non-sprint, medium distance, long distance,and the like), in order to receive improved drag-reduction benefits fromvortex generators. As will be explained in other portions of thisdescription, these patterns can be applied in different shapes andcoverage areas using garments and/or adhesive tape.

There are four different patterns 120, 122, 124, and 126 utilized amongthe mappings depicted in FIGS. 1-4; however, each of the mappingsapplies the patterns in a different manner (or not at all) to achieve adesired affect based on the athlete gender and event type. FIGS. 1 and 2suggest vortex-generator-pattern placement for female athletes, andFIGS. 3 and 4 suggest vortex-generator-pattern placement for maleathletes. In addition, FIGS. 1 and 3 suggest vortex-generator-patternplacement for athletes engaging in sprint-type events, which typicallyinclude the 100 meter sprint, 200 meter spring, and 400 meter sprint.FIGS. 2 and 4 suggest vortex-generator-pattern placement for athletesengaging in longer-than-sprint events, which typically include runningdistances longer than 400 meters. Although this description indicatesthat the mappings depicted in FIGS. 1-4 suggest vortex-generatorpositioning for certain sprint or running events, in other aspects, someor all of a mapping might be leveraged to position vortex generators forathletes competing in other events, such as throwing events, jumpingevents, and the like.

As previously mentioned, in FIG. 1 a first mapping 100 is illustratedthat shows how various patterns of vortex generators might be prescribedfor different areas or zones of a female athlete engaging in an eventhaving a sprint-type activity (e.g., 100 m sprint, 200 m sprint, and 400m sprint), in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. FIG. 1includes a legend 118A, which reflects a first vortex-generator pattern120, a second vortex-generator pattern 122, a third vortex-generatorpattern 124, and a fourth vortex-generator pattern 126. The use ofdifferent vortex-generator patterns on an athlete engaging in aparticular event (e.g., 100 meter sprint) can take advantage of vortexgenerators in a strategic manner by employing vortex-generator spacingand vortex-generator sizes that provide an amount of drag reduction,while also possibly accounting for other conditions, such as garmentweight, breathability, moisture management, and the like.

According to the first mapping 100, the lower leg zones 128A and 128B(i.e., below the athlete's knee) have been coded (i.e., prescribed) withthe first vortex-generator pattern 120 to indicate that a set of vortexgenerators having the first pattern 120 could be positioned in thoselower leg zones 128A and 128B to provide an amount of drag reduction.For instance, a pant-style garment or a calf sleeve could be worn havingportions that generally align with the distal leg zones 128A and 128 andthat are constructed to include the first vortex-generator pattern 120.In addition, adhesive tape constructed to include the firstvortex-generator pattern 120 could be applied to the distal leg zones128A and 128B (i.e., directly to a person's body or to a portion of agarment that covers those zones). In one aspect, the firstvortex-generator pattern 120 includes a spacing (i.e., distances 110 and112) of 1 cm and includes a vortex-generator height of 3 mm, which isalso reflected in Table 1 (below).

The first mapping 100 also indicates that lower arm zones 130A and 130B(i.e., forearm region below the athlete's elbow) have been coded withthe second vortex-generator pattern 122 to indicate that a set of vortexgenerators having the second pattern 122 could be positioned in thoselower arm zones 130A and 130B to provide an amount of drag reduction. Asindicated in other parts of this description, an athlete might wear agarment (e.g., long-sleeved shirt or detached arm sleeve) having thesecond pattern 122 over the lower arm zones 130A and 130B and/or mightapply an adhesive tape having the second pattern 122 to the distal armzones 130A and 130B. In one aspect of the invention, the secondvortex-generator pattern 122 includes a spacing of 1 cm and avortex-generator height of 2.5 mm, which is the same spacing as thefirst pattern 120 with a shorter vortex-generator height. Again, thespacing and sizing of the second pattern 122 is recorded in Table 1(below).

The first mapping 100 further illustrates that upper leg zones 132A and132B (i.e., above the athlete's knee) have been coded with the thirdvortex-generator pattern 124, and the upper arm zones (i.e., 134A and134B) and torso zone 136 have been coded with the fourthvortex-generator pattern 126. As such, each of these zones can beequipped (e.g., using a garment or tape) with the designated pattern ofvortex generators to achieve a desired amount of drag reduction. In oneaspect, the third pattern 124 includes a spacing of 1.5 cm and avortex-generator height of 2.5 mm, and the fourth pattern 126 includes aspacing of 2 cm and a vortex generator height of 2.5 mm.

To help illustrate how the patterns 120, 122, 124 and 126 compare to oneanother in respective dimensions (e.g., spacing and height) and how thepatterns are utilized within the mapping 100 for a female athleteengaging in a sprint-type event, Table 1 is provided below.

TABLE 1 Summary of Vortex-generator (VG) Pattern Mapping for FemaleAthlete Competing in Shorter-distance Events (e.g., 100 m, 200 m, or 400m) Visual VG Designated Name (Ref. #) Code Spacing Height Zones 1^(st)VG Pattern (120)

1 cm 3 mm Lower leg zones 2^(nd) VG Pattern (122)

1 cm 2.5 mm Lower arm zones 3^(rd) VG Pattern (124)

1.5 cm 2.5 mm Upper leg zones 4^(th) VG Pattern (126)

2 cm 2.5 mm Upper arm zones and torso

Referring now to FIG. 2, a second mapping 200 is illustrated that showshow various patterns 120, 122, and 126 of vortex generators might beprescribed for different areas or zones of a female athlete engaging inevents that include at least a medium-distance element (e.g., runningmore than 400 m), in accordance with an aspect of the present invention.All of the various patterns 120, 122, and 126 reflected in FIG. 2 arealso included in FIG. 1, thus the concepts illustrated by the patterntemplate shown in window 102 apply similarly (e.g., spacing 110 and 112and vortex-generator height 114). In addition, it is understood thatpatterns 120, 122, and 126 in mapping 200 include the same spacing andvortex-generator height as the patterns 120, 122, and 126 in mapping100; however, these patterns 120, 122 and 126 are prescribed in themapping 200 to zones that are different than the zones prescribed by themapping 100.

For further clarity, FIG. 2 includes a legend 118B, which reflects thefirst vortex-generator pattern 120, the second vortex-generator pattern122, and the fourth vortex-generator pattern 126, which are included inthe second mapping 200. As previously indicated, the use of differentpatterns on an athlete engaging in a particular event (e.g., 800 metersprint) takes advantage of vortex generators in a strategic manneremploying vortex-generator densities and vortex-generator sizes thatprovide an amount of drag reduction, while also possibly accounting forother desired conditions, such as garment weight, breathability,moisture management, and the like. As previously indicated, each of theanatomical zones identified in the mapping 200 can be equipped (e.g.,using a garment or tape) with the designated pattern of vortexgenerators to achieve a desired amount of drag reduction.

As compared with mapping 100, mapping 200 includes a different usage anddistribution of vortex-generator patterns, which is reflective of somelevel of event-specific, vortex-generator mapping. That is, thevortex-generator mappings (e.g., 100 and 200) are different to take intoaccount event-specific factors, such as anatomy (e.g., arm, leg, torso,etc.) speed, anatomy acceleration, anatomy angular movement, anatomypositions and body form during movement, and anatomy size, among others.

Similar to the mapping 100, the mapping 200 illustrates that, in oneinstance, the lower leg zones 128A are coded with the firstvortex-generator pattern 120, and the torso 140 is coded with the fourthvortex-generator pattern 126. However, in the mapping 200 the lower arms130A and 130B, the upper legs 132A and 132B, and the upper arms 134A and134B are coded differently, as compared with the mapping 100. That is,in the mapping 200 the upper arms 134A and 134B are coded with thesecond vortex-generator pattern 122, but in the mapping 100 the upperarms 134A and 134B are coded with the fourth vortex-generator pattern126, which includes a larger spacing (lower VG density) than the secondpattern 122. In addition, in the mapping 200 the upper legs 132A and132B are coded with the fourth vortex-generator pattern 126, but in themapping 100 the upper legs 132A and 132B are coded with the thirdvortex-generator pattern, which includes a closer spacing (higher VGdensity) than the fourth pattern 126. Furthermore, in the mapping 200the lower arms 130A and 130B are coded with the fourth vortex-generatorpattern 126, but in the mapping 100 the lower arms 130A and 130B arecoded with the second vortex-generator pattern, which includes a closerspacing (higher VG density) than the fourth pattern 126.

In one aspect of the present invention, these different applications ofthe same vortex-generator patterns within different mappings balances anamount of drag reduction for a particular zone based on anatomicalfactors (e.g. anatomy position, speed, acceleration, and angularmovement) with other attributes (e.g., garment weight andbreathability). For instance, a female's lower arms might be pumped at ahigher velocity when sprinting in a shorter distance race (e.g., notlonger than 400 meters), as compared with a longer distance race (e.g.,greater than 400 meters). Thus, the mapping 100 suggests a higherdensity pattern of vortex generators (e.g., second pattern) in the lowerarm zones 130A and 130B, as compared with the mapping 200. Since thelower-arm anatomy of a female athlete, who is engaging in a longerdistance race, might not receive the same benefit from a higher densitypattern of vortex generators (as compared with a female engaging in ashorter distance race) the mapping 200 suggests a lower density pattern(e.g., fourth pattern 126) in the lower arm zones 130A and 130B.

To help illustrate how the patterns 120, 122, and 126 compare to oneanother in respective dimensions (e.g., spacing and height) and how thepatterns are utilized within the second mapping 200 for a female athleteengaging in at least a medium-distance-type event (i.e., at least 400meters or longer), Table 2 is provided below.

TABLE 2 Summary of Vortex-generator (VG) Pattern Mapping for FemaleAthlete Competing in Medium-distance or Long-distance Events (e.g.,longer than 400 m) Visual VG Designated Name (Ref. #) Code SpacingHeight Zones 1st VG Pattern (120)

1 cm 3 mm Lower leg zones 2nd VG Pattern (122)

1 cm 2.5 mm Upper arm zones 4th VG Pattern (126)

2 cm 2.5 mm Upper leg zones, lower arm zones, and torso

Referring now to FIG. 3, a third mapping 300 is illustrated that showshow various patterns 120, 122, and 126 of vortex generators might beprescribed for different areas or zones of a male athlete engaging inevents that include a shorter or sprint-distance element (e.g., 100 m,200 m, or 400 m), in accordance with an aspect of the present invention.All of the various patterns 120, 122, and 126 reflected in FIG. 3 arealso included in FIGS. 1 and 2, thus the concepts illustrated by thepattern template shown in window 102 apply equally (e.g., spacing 110and 112 and vortex-generator height 114). In addition, it is understoodthat patterns 120, 122, and 126 in the third mapping 300 include thesame spacing and vortex-generator height as the patterns 120, 122, and126 in the first and second mappings 100 and 200; however, in the thirdmapping 300 these patterns 120, 122 and 126 are prescribed to zones ofthe athlete's anatomy in a manner that is different from both of thefirst and second mappings 100 and 200. Similar to FIGS. 1 and 2, FIG. 3also includes a mapping-specific legend 118C that reflects the firstvortex-generator pattern 120, the second vortex-generator pattern 122,and the fourth vortex-generator pattern 126, which are included in thethird mapping 300.

The third mapping 300 suggests equipping both the upper and lower legzones 128A, 128B, 132A, and 132B with the first vortex-generator pattern120. In addition, the third mapping suggests equipping both the upperand lower arm zones 130A, 130B, 134A, and 134B with the secondvortex-generator pattern 122. According to the third mapping 300, thetorso 136 is equipped with the fourth vortex-generator pattern 126. Aspreviously indicated, the various zones of an athlete might be equippedwith a prescribed pattern of vortex generators by wearing a garmentconstructed with vortex generators and/or by applying an adhesive tapeconstructed to include vortex generators to a person's body or to agarment.

To help illustrate how the patterns 120, 122, and 126 compare to oneanother in respective dimensions (e.g., spacing and height) and how thepatterns are utilized within the third mapping 300 for a male athleteengaging in a sprint-type or shorter-distance event (e.g., 100 m, 200 m,or 400 m), Table 3 is provided below.

TABLE 3 Summary of Vortex-generator (VG) Pattern Mapping for MaleAthlete Competing in Shorter-distance Events (e.g., 100 m, 200 m, or 400m) Visual VG Designated Name (Ref. #) Code Spacing Height Zones 1st VGPattern (120)

1 cm 3 mm Lower leg zones and upper leg zones 2nd VG Pattern (122)

1 cm 2.5 mm Lower arm zones and Upper arm zones 4th VG Pattern (126)

2 cm 2.5 mm torso

Referring now to FIG. 4, a fourth mapping 400 is illustrated that showshow various patterns 120, 122, 124, and 126 of vortex generators mightbe prescribed for different areas or zones of a male athlete engaging inevents that include at least a medium-distance element (e.g., longerthan 400 m), in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. Allof the various patterns 120, 122, 124, and 126 reflected in the fourthmapping 400 are also included the first mapping 100 (FIG. 1), andpatterns 120, 122, and 126 are included in the second mapping 200 andthe third mapping 300. Thus, the same concepts apply with respect tovortex-generator spacing and height, and the patterns 120, 122, 124, and126 in the fourth mapping 400 include the same spacing andvortex-generator height as the patterns 120, 122, 124, and 126 in theother mappings 100, 200, and 300. However, in the fourth mapping 400these patterns 120, 122, 124, and 126 are prescribed to zones of theathlete's anatomy in a manner that is different from the other mappings100, 200, and 300. Similar to FIGS. 1-3, FIG. 4 also includes amapping-specific legend 118D that reflects the first vortex-generatorpattern 120, the second vortex-generator pattern 122, the thirdvortex-generator pattern 124, and the fourth vortex-generator pattern126, which are included in the fourth mapping 400.

Similar to the third mapping 300, the fourth mapping 400 suggestsequipping both the upper and lower arm zones 130A, 130B, 134A, and 134Bwith the second vortex-generator pattern 122 and equipping the torsozone 136 with the fourth vortex-generator pattern 126. In addition, boththe third and fourth mapping suggest equipping the lower leg zone 128Aand 128B with the first vortex-generator pattern 120. However, thefourth mapping 400 differs from the third mapping 300 in that the fourthmapping suggests equipping the upper leg zone 132A and 132B with thethird vortex-generator pattern 124, which is less dense than the firstpattern 120 suggested by the third mapping for the upper leg zone. Aspreviously indicated, the various zones of an athlete might be equippedwith a prescribed pattern of vortex generators by wearing a garmentconstructed with vortex generators and/or by applying an adhesive tapeconstructed to include vortex generators to a person's body or to agarment.

To help illustrate how the patterns 120, 122, 124 and 126 compare to oneanother in respective dimensions (e.g., spacing and height) and how thepatterns are utilized within the fourth mapping 400 for a male athleteengaging in at least a medium-distance or longer-distance event (e.g.,over 400 m), Table 4 is provided below.

TABLE 4 Summary of Vortex-generator (VG) Pattern Mapping for MaleAthlete Competing in Medium-distance or Long-distance Events (e.g.,longer than 400 m) Visual VG Designated Name (Ref. #) Code SpacingHeight Zones 1^(st) VG Pattern (120)

1 cm 3 mm Lower leg zones 2^(nd) VG Pattern (122)

1 cm 2.5 mm Lower arm zones and upper arm zones 3^(rd) VG Pattern (124)

1.5 cm 2.5 mm Upper leg zones 4^(th) VG Pattern (126)

2 cm 2.5 mm Torso

An aspect of the present invention includes using the various mappings100, 200, 300, and 400 to construct garments and adhesive tape.Furthermore, although the mappings 100, 200, 300, and 400 refer toeither shorter/sprint events or medium/long events, the mappings 100,200, 300, and 400 might be used to provide benefits in other events inaccordance with an aspect of the present invention. For example, variousthrowing motions are common in events, such as the javelin throw, discusthrow, shot put throw/put, and at least part of the mappings 100, 200,300, and 400 might be used to determine how to equip an athlete engagingin one or more of these events. Likewise, jumping is common in variousevents, and a further aspect of the present invention includes applyingat least part of the mappings 100, 200, 300, and 400 to determine how toequip an athlete competing in jumping event. Various other motions mightalso benefit from vortex-generator-induced, drag reduction, such as polevaulting, cycling, skating, skiing, sledding, and snowboarding, amongmany others.

Vortex-Generator-Enhanced Garments

As indicated in other parts of this description, the mappings 100, 200,300, and 400 of FIGS. 1-4 can be used as guides to construct garmentswith particular patterns of vortex generators. As such, the garments canbe combined with one another to create a system of vortex generatorscustomized for a particular gender of athlete engaging in a particulartype of event.

Referring to FIGS. 5A-5K, various aspects of the present invention areillustrated in which garments have been constructed to include anarrangement of vortex generators having a vortex-generator patternsuggested by one of the mappings 100, 200, 300, and 400. That is, eachof the garments depicted in FIGS. 5A-5K are configured to cover one ormore of the zones 128A/B, 130A/B, 132A/B, 134A/B, and 136 of a maleand/or female athlete. Accordingly, each of the garments in FIGS. 5A-5Kare customized to include one or more of the vortex-generator patterns120, 122, 124, and 126, based on the gender of the athlete and the typeof event in which the garment might be worn.

In one aspect of the present invention, the garments depicted in FIGS.5A-5K are equipped with arrangements of vortex generators, thearrangements being sized and shaped to balance drag reduction with otherqualities. For instance, an arrangement might be positioned on a garmentat a position in which the boundary layer typically separates from thegarment when the garment is worn by a person engaging in a activity. Inone aspect, an arrangement is positioned lateral to an anterior-portionmidline, such as lateral to a midline along an anterior side of a legand/or lateral to a midline along an anterior side of a torso. Inanother aspect, arrangements of vortex generators are omitted fromportions of a garment that might receive less drag-reduction benefitsfrom the vortex generators. A further aspect of the present inventionincludes orienting the vortex generators based on an angular velocity ina particular zone of the athlete (e.g., lower leg zone, upper leg zone,upper arm zone, lower arm zone, torso, and the like).

For example, FIG. 5A depicts one aspect including a right-leg sleeve502, which includes an anterior portion 504 and a posterior portion 506.The anterior portion 504, which is alignable along an anterior portionof an athlete's lower leg, is constructed to include an arrangement ofvortex generators, which includes the first vortex-generator pattern 120based on the mappings 100, 200, 300, and 400. The right-leg sleeve 502includes the pattern 120, which is consistently prescribed for the lowerleg zone 128A/B in both male and female athletes and in both shorter andlonger distance events. Although only the right-leg sleeve 502 isdepicted, an aspect of the invention also includes a left-left sleevethat is essentially a mirror image of the right-leg sleeve 502. Forexample, the orientation of the pattern 120 and the shape of thearrangement of vortex generators might be a mirror image.

In another aspect illustrated by FIG. 5B, exemplary garments include aright-arm sleeve 510A and a left-arm sleeve 510B constructed to includea respective arrangement of vortex generators 512A and 512B. Similar tothe leg sleeves described with respect to FIG. 5A, the arm sleeves 510Aand 510B might be mirror images of one another. In one aspect, thevortex-generator arrangements 512A and 512B might include the secondvortex-generator pattern 122, as suggested by the first, third, andfourth mappings 100, 300, and 400. In another aspect, when the armsleeves 510A and 510B are to be worn by a female athlete competing in alonger-than-sprint-distance event, the second mapping 200 suggests thatthe vortex-generator arrangements 512A and 512B should include thefourth pattern 126.

Referring to FIG. 5C, a shorts-type garment 514 is depicted for a maleathlete engaging in a longer-than-sprint-type event (e.g., greater than400 m). The shorts-type garment 514 is constructed to include avortex-generator arrangement 516 that is alignable in an upper leg zone132A and 132B when the shorts-type garment 514 is worn. Based on themapping 400, the vortex-generator arrangement 516 includes the thirdvortex-generator pattern 124 based on the gender of the athlete and thetype of event in which the shorts-type garment 514 might be worn.

Referring to FIGS. 5D and 5E, sleeveless-shirt-type garments 518 and 522are depicted for a male athlete. For example, the garment 518 might be asinglet-style garment worn by male athletes competing inlonger-than-sprint-type events, and the garment 522 might be a worn by amale athlete competing in a sprint-type event. Both of thesleeveless-shirt-type garments 518 and 522 are constructed to include avortex-generator arrangement 520A/B and 524A/B that is alignable in atorso zone 136 when each garment 518 and 522 is worn. Based on themappings 300 and 400, the vortex-generator arrangements 520A/B and524A/B both include the fourth vortex-generator pattern 126 based on thegender of the athlete and the type of event in which each of thegarments 518 and 522 might be worn.

FIG. 5F depicts another aspect of the present invention, which includesa unitard-style garment 526 for a male athlete engaging in a sprint-typeevent. The unitard-style garment 526 is constructed to include aplurality of vortex-generator arrangements 528A/B, 530A/B, and 532 thatare alignable with upper leg zones 132A and 132B, a torso 136, and upperarm zones 134A/B (respectively) when the unitard-style garment 526 isworn. Based on the mapping 300, the vortex-generator arrangements 528A/Bincludes the first pattern 120, the arrangements 530A/B include thefourth pattern 126, and the arrangement 532 includes the second pattern122 to provide specificity for the gender of the athlete and the type ofevent in which the unitard-style garment 526 might be worn. Although theunitard garment 526 is illustrated with sleeve portions, in otheraspect, the unitard garment might be sleeveless. In addition, anotheraspect might include portions of the unitard that include the samevortex-generator arrangements and that are separate from one another ineither a shorts-only garment, a shirt-only garment, or a singlet-onlygarment.

Referring to FIGS. 5G and 5K, sleeveless-shirt-type garments 534 and 556are depicted for a female athlete. For example, the garment 534 (FIG.5G) might be a singlet-style garment worn by female athletes competingin longer-than-sprint-type events, and the garment 556 (FIG. 5K) mightbe a worn by a female athlete competing in a sprint-type event. Both ofthe sleeveless-shirt-type garments 534 and 556 are constructed toinclude a vortex-generator arrangement 536A/B and 558A/B (respectively)that is alignable in a torso zone 136 when each garment 534 and 558 isworn. Based on the mappings 100 and 200, the vortex-generatorarrangements 536A/B and 558A/B both include the fourth vortex-generatorpattern 126 based on the gender of the athlete and the type of event inwhich each of the garments 534 and 556 might be worn.

FIG. 5H depicts another aspect of the present invention, which includesa unitard-style garment 538 for a female athlete engaging in asprint-type event. The unitard-style garment 538 is constructed toinclude a plurality of vortex-generator arrangements 540, 542A/B, and544 that are alignable with upper leg zones 132A and 132B, a torso zone136, and upper arm zones 134A/B (respectively) when the unitard-stylegarment 538 is worn. Based on the mapping 100, the vortex-generatorarrangement 540 includes the third pattern 124, the arrangements 542A/Binclude the fourth pattern 126, and the arrangement 544 includes thefourth pattern 126 to provide specificity for the female gender of theathlete and the type of event in which the unitard-style garment 538might be worn. Although the unitard garment 538 is illustrated withsleeve portions, in other aspect, the unitard garment might besleeveless. In addition, another aspect might include portions of theunitard that include the same vortex-generator arrangements and that areseparate from one another in either a shorts-only garment, a shirt-onlygarment (e.g., FIG. 5J), or a singlet-only garment.

Referring to FIG. 5I, a shorts-type garment 546 is depicted for a femaleathlete engaging in a longer-than-sprint-type event (e.g., greater than400 m). The shorts-type garment 546 is constructed to include avortex-generator arrangement 548 that is alignable in an upper leg zone132A and 132B when the shorts-type garment 546 is worn. Based on themapping 200, the vortex-generator arrangement 548 includes the fourthvortex-generator pattern 126 to provide gender specificity (i.e.,female) and event specificity.

FIGS. 5A-5K provide examples of garments on which vortex generatorsmight be applied, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.However, vortex generator might be applied to various other types ofgarments, such as headwear (e.g., cap, helmet, beanie, etc.), handwear(e.g., gloves, mittens, hand braces, etc.), and footwear (e.g., runningflats, track spikes, cleats, basketball shoes, and cross-training shoes,among many others). In other aspects, event specific articles might beenhanced with vortex generators, such as a javelin sleeve to be worn ona throwing arm.

In a further aspect, vortex generators are positioned on a footweararticle at regions of the footwear at which the boundary layer separatesfrom the outer surface of the footwear. In another aspect, the vortexgenerators are positioned to include a particular angular orientationrelative to a ground surface at a particular positioning in a runningstride. For example, a region (e.g., shoe upper) of a footwear articlemight experience a respective velocity having an angular orientationwith respect to the upper surface when the article is about to be pulledoff of the ground (i.e., by runner). Thus in one aspect, vortexgenerators might be angled to point in a direction of the velocity onthe particular region to account for the angular orientation of thevelocity. These angles might be different based on the type of event orthe athlete. For example, in some events, angular velocities mightinclude angles of about 79 degrees or 55 degrees, depending on where thearticle is in the stride. In other contexts (i.e., event and/or athlete)the upper might experience angular velocities oriented at about 130degrees or 42 degrees relative to the plane of the upper, depending onwhere the article is in the stride.

Vortex-Generator-Enhanced Adhesive Tape

In another aspect of the present invention, a vortex-generator appliqueis constructed to include an arrangement of vortex generators.Accordingly the arrangement of vortex generators can be selectivelyapplied to one or more particular zones of a person's body, such as byapplying the applique to a garment or directly to the person's body. Inaddition, the applique can be constructed to include one or morevortex-generator patterns, such as one or more of the patterns 120, 122,124, or 126 (i.e., VG-enhanced tape). As such, each one of the patterns120, 122, 124, and 126 can be selectively applied to one or moreparticular zones of a person's body. The patterns 120, 122, 124, and 126are merely exemplary of some patterns in accordance with one aspect ofthe disclosure, and a VG-enhanced applique may be constructed to includeother patterns in accordance with other aspects of the disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 6A, an exemplary adhesive-tape strip 610 (e.g.,applique) is depicted that is attachable to various zones of anathlete's body (i.e., to a garment or directly to the person's body). InFIG. 6A, the strip 610 includes an outward-facing surface 612, whichfaces away from the athlete's skin surface when the strip 610 isattached to the athlete and faces away from the surface of a garment towhich the strip may be attached. The adhesive-tape strip 610 isconstructed such that an arrangement of vortex generators (e.g., 614A-F)is affixed to the outward-facing surface 612. The arrangement of vortexgenerators can be configured to include any desired spacing orvortex-generator size, and in one aspect of the present invention, thearrangement of vortex generators includes the spacing and sizing setforth in one or more of the patterns 120, 122, 124, and 126. As such,one or more of the adhesive-tape strips 610 are attachable to any of thezones 128A/B, 130A/B, 132A/B, 134A/B, and/or 136 to selectively applyone or more vortex-generator patterns. For example, if the adhesive-tapestrip 610 is constructed to include the first vortex-generator pattern120, then a male or female athlete engaging in a sprint-type event mightapply the adhesive-tape strip to his or her lower leg region 128A/B.

FIG. 6B depicts a cross-sectional, schematic view of the adhesive-tapestrip 610, taken across the cross-sectional reference line depicted inFIG. 6A, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. In FIG.6B, the adhesive-tape strip 610 includes the outward-facing surface 612of a base-layer substrate layer 616. The base-layer substrate 616 mightinclude an elastic layer (e.g., elastomeric and flexible fabric)configured to stretch uni-directionally (e.g., in length) orbi-directionally (e.g., length and width) to provide a desired forceagainst an applied-to surface (e.g., an athlete's skin surface). Inaddition, the base-layer substrate might be designed to provide adesirable amount of breathability and/or moisture tolerance. Thebase-layer substrate 616 might be constructed of a natural fiber (e.g.,cotton), a synthetic fiber, or a combination thereof. In one aspect, thebase-layer substrate 616 is a type of base-layer substrate used toconstruct elastic therapeutic tape (e.g., kinesio tape).

The adhesive-tape strip 610 also includes a first adhesive layer 618applied to an inward-facing surface of the base-layer substrate 616, theinward-facing surface generally opposing the outward-facing surface 612and facing towards an athlete's skin surface (or towards a garment) whenthe strip 610 is coupled to the athlete's skin surface (or to agarment). The first adhesive layer 618 might have various propertiesmaking the adhesive-tape strip 610 suitable for application to humanskin in a therapeutic or supportive context, such as non-irritationproperties, heat-activation properties, and the like.

In one aspect, the adhesive-tape strip 610 includes a removable backinglayer 620 that covers the adhesive layer 618 prior to the strip 610being applied to an athlete. The removable backing layer 620 can then bepeeled away from the strip 610 to uncover the adhesive layer 618. Thebacking layer 620 may also be used as a vehicle onto which to printinstructions for how and where to apply the adhesive-tape strip 610. Forexample, if the adhesive-tape strip 610 includes an arrangement ofvortex generators that include the first pattern 120, then the backinglayer 620 might include an explanation of the zones on the athlete'sbody (e.g., 128A/B) to which it is suggested to apply the strip 610.However, in other aspects, the removable backing layer 620 might beomitted when the strip 610, and the strip 610 is rolled up to cover theadhesive layer prior to applying the strip to an athlete.

In a further aspect, the adhesive-tape strip 610 includes a secondadhesive layer 622A and 622B that bonds the vortex generators 614A and614B to the outward-facing surface 612 of the strip 610. As indicatedabove, the depiction provided by FIG. 6B is schematic in nature and isnot necessarily meant to illustrate or depict accurate scaling of layerthickness or vortex-generator sizing or spacing.

Vortex-Generator Kit

In an aspect of the present invention, garments, tape, or both garmentsand tape, are combinable into a kit to provide a system of vortexgenerators that may be used to apply one or more pattern selection andplacement suggested by a vortex-generator mapping. For example, a kitmight include a combination of garment(s) and/or tape having variousvortex-generator patterns matching at least part of one or more of themappings 100, 200, 300, and 400. In addition, the kit might include aset of instructions suggesting where VG-enhanced tape can be worn by anathlete, consistent with a particular mapping.

For example, a first kit might be configured for a male athletecompeting in a sprint-type event (e.g., 100 meter dash, 200 meter dash,or 400 meter dash), the first kit including one or more garments,VG-enhanced tape, or both garment(s) and VG-enhanced tape that iscombinable to provide a system of vortex generators that applies thepattern selection and placement designated in the third vortex-generatormapping 300. Among other garment items, the first kit might include theunitard garment 5F (with or without sleeves) and/or independent shortsand singlet 5E. In addition, the first kit might include leg sleeves(e.g., 5A) including the first pattern 120 and arm sleeves including thesecond pattern 122.

In a further aspect of the disclosure, the first kit for a male sprintermight include a first set of VG-tape strips having the firstvortex-generator pattern 120 and a second set of VG-tape strips havingthe second vortex-generator pattern 122. The kit might also includeinstructions suggesting the placement of the first set of VG-tape strips(e.g., at an area corresponding with lower leg zone 128A/B) and adifferent placement of the second set of VG-tape strips (e.g., at areascorresponding with upper and lower arm zones). The kit may or may notinclude tape with the fourth vortex-generator pattern 126 for placementin an area corresponding with the torso or abdomen.

Referring now to FIGS. 7 and 8 an exemplary kit of VG-enhanced tape isdepicted. FIG. 7 includes a VG-enhanced applique 234A for an upperportion of a right arm, a VG-enhanced applique 234B for an upper portionof a left arm, a VG-enhanced applique 230A for a lower portion of aright arm, a VG-enhanced applique 230B for a lower portion of a leftarm, a VG-enhanced applique 228A for lateral side of a lower right leg,a VG-enhanced applique 229A for a medial side of a lower right leg, aVG-enhanced applique 228B for lateral side of a lower left leg, and aVG-enhanced applique 229B for a medial side of a lower left leg. In anaspect of the present invention, the appliques 230A/B, 234A/B, 228A/B,and 229A/B are combined into a set of appliques that may be usable by aperson to achieve an amount of drag reduction. Furthermore, the set ofappliques may be used to apply vortex generators to a person in a mannerconsistent with at least part of one or more of the mappings 100, 200,300, and 400. For example, the set of appliques may be used by a malesprinter in a manner consistent with the mapping 300 depicted in FIG. 3.

In FIG. 7, directly below the depiction of each applique is anillustration of pictorial instructions depicting how to attach arespective applique to a person. As explained in other portions of thisdisclosure, the instructions may be printed on the removable backinglayer 620 or may be printed on the substrate layer 616. All of theappliques depicted in FIG. 7 might be worn by a person at the same timewhen competing in an event and in a manner consistent with the mapping300. In other aspects, less than all of the appliques might be wornduring an event, but the appliques may still be positioned relative tothe person's body in a manner consistent with the mapping 300.Additional appliques may be combined with the appliques depicted in FIG.7, such that a person wears more appliques than those depicted in FIG. 7for a particular event.

Reference is now made to FIG. 8, which further illustrates that a kit orsystem of vortex-generator tape may be used to achieve an amount of dragreduction in a manner consistent with a mapping. FIG. 8 includes areproduction of FIG. 3 for illustrative purpose, the reproductionincluding a depiction of the mapping 300. FIG. 8 also illustrates onemanner in which the appliques 230A/B, 234A/B, 228A/B, and 229A/B mightbe applied in a manner that is consistent with the mapping 300. Forexample, the appliques 230A/B might be applied to the lower portions130A/B of the right and left arms (respectively). In FIG. 8, theappliques 230A/B are outlined by a respective box that is labeled withreference numeral 122 to illustratively convey that the appliques 230A/Bmay be constructed to include a vortex-generator pattern that isconsistent with the pattern 122. In addition, the appliques 234A/B mightbe applied to the upper portions 134A/B of the right and left arms(respectively). In FIG. 8, the appliques 234A/B are also outlined by arespective box that is labeled with reference numeral 122 to convey thatthe appliques 234A/B may be constructed to include a vortex-generatorpattern that is consistent with the pattern 122. As further depicted inFIG. 8, the appliques 228A/B and 229A/B might be applied to the lowerportions 128A/B (e.g., calf, shin, and the like) of the right and leftlegs (respectively). In FIG. 8, the appliques 228A/B and 229A/B areoutlined by a respective box that is labeled with reference numeral 120to convey that the appliques 234A/B may be constructed to include avortex-generator pattern that is consistent with the pattern 120.

The kit of vortex generators depicted in FIGS. 7 and 8 is merelyexemplary, and a vortex-generator kit might include various othercombinations of articles (e.g., garments, tape, or a combination ofgarments and tape) constructed to include vortex generators in variouspatterns. These patterns may be consistent with at least part of amapping and may be prescribed for a particular zone of a person. Asexplained in other parts of this specification, a kit may or may notinclude articles that are applied to every zone identified in themappings 100, 200, 300, and 400. Even though a kit may omit an articlethat corresponds with a particular region (e.g., upper leg region132A/B), the kit may still provide vortex-generator-enhanced articles ina manner that is consistent with a mapping. For instance, the kitdepicted in FIG. 7 omits a vortex-generator-enhance article that can beapplied to the upper leg region 132A/B, but the kit in FIG. 7 stillprovides a system of vortex generators based on the mapping 300.

In other aspects, a size of the vortex-generator-enhanced articles mayincrease or decrease to accommodate different body dimensions, such asheight. For instance, a kit for taller athletes may include VG-enhancedtape that is longer than a kit for shorter athletes. In this case, theVG-patterns may be the same between the two kits, even though the longerVG-enhanced tape may include additional vortex generators covering theadditional length.

Various other kits are also contemplated within the scope of aspects ofthe invention, such as kits customized for male athletes competing inlonger-than-sprint-type events (e.g., longer than 400 meters), femaleathletes competing in longer-than-sprint-type events, and femaleathletes competing in sprint-type events. Each of these kits includesone or more garments (e.g., shorts, pants, shirts, tanks, sleeves,etc.), VG-enhanced tape, or a combination thereof to provide a system ofvortex generators that applies the pattern selection and placementsuggested by a respective vortex-generator mapping.

Method of Making VG-Enhanced Article

Vortex-generator enhanced articles, such as garments or tape, can beconstructed using various techniques. Referring to FIG. 9 a flow chartdepicts a series of steps that, when executed, carry out a method 700 ofconstructing a VG-enhanced article, in accordance with an aspect of thisinvention. A VG-enhanced article includes an article (e.g., garment,equipment, or tape) that includes one or more vortex generators coupled(e.g., adhered, molded to, cast to, etc.) to a surface of the article.

In one aspect, step 710 includes casting a first set of vortexgenerators by pouring a material (e.g., silicone, polyurethane,thermoplastic polyurethane, etc.) into a mold having a first set of moldcavities, each of which includes a shape of each vortex generator of thefirst set of vortex generators. The mold might include variousconfigurations, and in one aspect, the mold includes a substantiallyflat plate having rows of vortex-generator cavities alignedside-by-side. In a further aspect, the vortex generator cavities mightbe oriented in the mold, such that the vortex-generator base ispositioned toward an open portion of the cavity into which the materialis poured. The material poured into the mold cavities is hardened,dried, cured, etc. by applying an appropriate process (e.g., heating,cooling, drying, pressurized, vulcanized, and the like).

Step 712 includes coupling the cast vortex generators to a transfersheet, in one aspect of the method 700. For example, when the base ofthe vortex generator is cast towards the open portion of the moldcavity, then an adhesive might be applied to the base, and the transfersheet might be pressed against the vortex generator base to remove thevortex generator from the mold cavity. In this respect, adhesive can beapplied to all of the vortex-generator bases in the same step to allowall (or substantially all) of the cast vortex generators to be removedfrom the mold using the transfer sheet. In another aspect, an adhesivemight be applied to the transfer sheet to remove the cast vortexgenerators without applying an adhesive to the vortex-generator bases.

In a further aspect, step 714 includes transferring one or more of thevortex-generators from the transfer sheet to a vortex-generatortemplate, which may include a grid of vortex-generator-receivingcavities, each of which allows a vortex-generator to be positionedtherein with a base of the vortex-generator facing away from the cavity.An exemplary vortex-generator template includes a set ofvortex-generator slots for receiving a set of vortex generators to bearranged into a pattern formed by the vortex-generator slots. Forexample, a template might include a grid of vortex-generator slots thatare arranged in a sheet and organized into rows having a consistentspacing. In one aspect, the rows and the spacing of the template areconfigured to create one or more of the patterns 100, 200, 300, and 400.For example, a separate template might be used for each of the patterns100, 200, 300, and 400. Or in another aspect, the vortex-generator slotsand rows might include a spacing that allows the same template to beused to create more than one of the patterns. For example, if thetemplate slots and rows included a spacing of 0.5 cm, then the templatecould be used to create more than one of the patterns 100, 200, 300, and400 by transferring vortex generators into only select ones of theslots.

Once the vortex generators are placed in the appropriate slots in thetemplate that form a desired pattern (e.g., 100, 200, 300, or 400), step716 includes applying a bonding agent (e.g., layers 622A and 622B inFIG. 6B) to the base of each of the vortex generators, the base facingout of the template cavity. In step 718, the template is then pressedonto a select article to bond or adhere the vortex generators to thearticle in the pre-set pattern. For example, the template might bepressed onto a garment layer, tape, or athletic equipment. The one ormore vortex generators might be affixed to an article layer usingvarious methods. For example, in one aspect, the bonding agent is apressure activated agent that adheres to the article layer when the oneor more vortex-generators are pressed onto the article layer. In anotheraspect, the bonding agent might be heat activated, in which case aheat-providing device (e.g., heat gun) is used to cure the bonding agentwhen the one or more vortex generators are positioned on the articlelayer. In a further aspect, a vacuum filter might be utilized to holdthe one or more vortex generators in position on the article layer whilethe bonding agent is curing (e.g., while pressure or heat is applied).

Vortex-generator-enhanced articles might be manufactured using othertechniques as well. For example, in one aspect, one or more vortexgenerators might be 3D printed directly onto an article layer. Inanother aspect, one or more vortex generators might be 3D printed in aninitial step and then bonded to an article layer. And in an alternativeaspect, one or more vortex generators might be integrally molded with anarticle layer, such as in a co-molding process, injection molding, orsuccessive molding process.

Structure of One or More Vortex Generators

A vortex generator that is used to enhance a garment (e.g., FIGS.5A-5K), tape (e.g., FIGS. 6A and 6B), or other athletic equipment mighthave various structures. Generally, a vortex generator includes a vanefor affecting a boundary layer of a flow of a fluid medium (e.g., air orwater) passing over the surface of an article (e.g., garment or tapedonned by an athlete or equipment used in a sporting event). Inaddition, a vortex generator typically includes a base for attaching thevane to the article. In one aspect of the present invention, a vortexgenerator includes a dart-shaped vane in combination with differenttypes of bases. For instance, FIGS. 10A-10D illustrate the dart-shapedvane with a first type of base and FIGS. 11-14 illustrate thedart-shaped vane with other types of bases. However, in other aspects, avortex generator might include a vane having a configuration that isdifferent from the dart-shaped configuration.

Referring now to FIG. 10A-10D, an exemplary vortex generator is depictedand is identified generally by reference numeral 10. FIG. 10B depicts abottom elevation of the vortex generator shown in FIGS. 10A, 10B, and10D. FIG. 10C depicts a rear elevation view, and FIG. 10D depicts afront elevation perspective. FIG. 10C is described as a rear viewbecause in one aspect the vortex generator 10 is positioned so that thevertex 60 is “downstream” (relative to vertices 30 and 32) when thefluid medium flows over the vortex generator 10.

The vortex generator 10 includes a vane 12 that extends from a base 14.Generally, the base 14 is the part of the vortex generator 10 thatsupports the vortex generator 10 on an article (e.g., garment orequipment), adhesive strip, or human, and the vane 12 is the part of thevortex generator 10 that affects the boundary layer of the fluid-mediumflow. In FIG. 10A, there is not necessarily a clear delineation betweenthe vane 12 and the base 14, and a portion of the vortex generator 10that is considered part of the vane 12 might also be considered part ofthe base 14. For example, FIG. 10B depicts a bottom elevation of thevortex generator 10, including a bottom surface 16. The bottom surface16 might be considered part of the vane 12 because it forms part of thebottom portion of the vane, which affects the boundary layer. Inaddition, the bottom surface 16 might also be considered part of thebase 14, if the bottom surface 16 is used to couple the vortex generator10 to an article.

In FIGS. 10A and 10B, the vane includes a bottom portion 18, whichincludes a dart-polygon configuration. In this instance, thedart-polygon configuration is defined by the periphery edges 20, 22, 24,and 26 of the bottom surface 16 depicted in FIG. 10B. Some of theseedges can also be seen in each of FIGS. 10A-10C.

In FIG. 10B, edges 20 and 22 intersect at vertex 28; edges 20 and 24intersect at a vertex 30; edges 22 and 26 intersect at a vertex 32; andedges 24 and 26 intersect at a vertex 34. Generally, the dart-polygonconfiguration of the bottom surface 16 includes a first convex portion36, a second convex portion 38, and a third convex 40. In this context,the term convex describes an interior angle of a polygon that is lessthan 180 degrees (i.e., convex interior angle). In addition, thedart-polygon configuration of the bottom surface 16 includes a concaveportion 42, and in this context, concave describes an interior angle ofthe polygon that is greater than 180 degrees (i.e., concave interiorangle). An angle of the first convex portion 36 is greater than therespective angles of the second and third convex portions 38 and 40,which are substantially similar.

The dart-polygon configuration might be defined at least in part byangles of the convex interior portion 36 and the concave interiorportion 42. Referring to FIG. 10B, in one aspect, the concave portion 42includes an angle that is in a range of about 300 degrees to about 305degrees. And in one further aspect, the angle of concave portion 42 isabout 302.16 degrees. In another aspect, the convex interior portion 36is in a range of about 35 degrees to about 40 degrees. In an additionalaspect, the convex interior portion 36 is defined by an angle of about38.8 degrees.

In FIGS. 10A-10D, the periphery edges 20, 22, 24, and 26 also formcorners or edges of the vortex generator 10 at which walls of the vortexgenerator meet the bottom surface 16. For example, a side wall 44extends from the edge 20, and another side wall 45 (FIG. 10C) extendsfrom the edge 22. For descriptive purposes, the walls 44 and 45 might bereferred to as external walls or external side walls. The external sidewalls 44 and 45 that extend from edges 20 and 22 meet at another edge46, which also intersects with the edges 20 and 22 at the vertex 28. Ina further aspect, a wall 48 extends from the edge 26, and another wall50 extends from the edge 24 and meets the wall 48 at an edge 52. Fordescriptive purposes the walls 48 and 50 might be referred to asinternal walls or internal side walls. The edge 52 intersects with theedges 24 and 26 at the vertex 36. These internals side walls 48 and 50and edges 24 and 26 form a concave portion of the vortex generator.

The vortex generator 10 might be defined by various dimensions, such asa height, length, width, and the like. These dimensions might be definedindependently, or might be defined as ratios of one another. For examplethe vortex generator 10 might include a height 68, which is defined atleast in part by a length of the edge 46 extending between the vertices28 and 60. In a further example, the vortex generator 10 includes alength 70 defined at least in part by a distance between the vertex 28and a reference line 72 connecting the vertices 30 and 32. In addition,a width might be defined as a distance between the vertex 30 and thevertex 32. In one aspect, the vortex generator includes a height tolength ratio in a range of about 2:5 to about 2.5:5. And in a furtheraspect, the vane includes a length to width ratio in a range of about5:3.5 to about 5.3:3.7.

The vortex generator 10 also includes a top surface 54 that is generallyconcave and that is depicted in FIGS. 10A and 10D. The top surface 54 isgenerally defined by a first curved edge 56 and a second curved edge 58,each of which forms a top edge of a respective external side wall 44 and45. The curved edge 56 intersects with edge 20 at vertex 30, and thecurved edge 58 intersects with edge 22 at vertex 32. In addition, bothof the edges 56 and 58 intersect with one another and with edge 46 at avertex 60. The top surface 54 is also generally defined by a thirdcurved edge 62 and a second curved edge 64, each of which forms a topedge of a respective internal side wall 48 and 50. The curved edge 62intersects with edges 58, 22, and 26 and at vertex 32, and the curvededge 64 intersects with edges 56, 20, and 24 at vertex 30. In addition,both of the edges 62 and 64 intersect with one another and with edge 52at a vertex 66.

The top surface 54 might include various dimensions that define at leastpart of the vortex generator 10. For example, in one aspect, the topsurface is generally concave and a curve of the top surface includes asimple curve having a substantially constant radius. In an alternativeaspect, the curve of the top surface is a compound curve and includescurves having different radii. For example, a first curve having a firstarc radius might extend from the vertices 30 and 32 to a mid-point ofthe top surface aligned with vertex 66, and a second curve having asecond arc radius might extend form the mid-point to the vertex 60. Inone aspect, the first arc radius is in a range of about 10.00 mm toabout 11.27 mm and the second arc radius is in a range of about 6.9 mmto about 8.3 mm.

The vortex generator depicted in FIGS. 10A-10D is illustrated to includerelatively sharp features. For example, the edges 20, 26, 56, and 58(FIG. 10A) are depicted as corners with minimal rounding, and thevertices 30, 32, and 60 are depicted as coming to a relatively sharppoint. But in other aspects, each of these elements might be rounded orchamfered without departing from the scope of the claimed subjectmatter.

Referring now to FIG. 11, another aspect of a vortex generator 10B isdepicted in which the vane 12 depicted in FIGS. 10A-10D is coupled ontop of a base plate 14B. That is, base plate 14B is a layer of materialthat is sized to substantially cover the bottom surface 16 depicted inFIG. 10B. In FIG. 11, the vane is identified by reference numeral 12B.The base plate 14B is illustrated to include a triangular shape, whichsubstantially aligns with the vertices 30, 32, and 28. But in otheraspects, the base plate 14B might be circular, ovular, rectangular, orsome other shape. In addition, the base plate 14B might include athickness that falls in a range of thicknesses between about 0.25 mm and0.5 mm. Furthermore, the base plate might extend beyond the footprint ofthe vane, as depicted by a vortex generator 10D in FIG. 12, whichincludes a base 14D that extends beyond the footprint of the vane 12B.

In one aspect, the vane 12B and the base plate 14B are integrally formedas a single part. For instance, the vane 12B and the base plate 14Bmight be co-molded, sequentially molded, or cast together as a singlepart. In FIG. 11, reference line 74 is depicted to illustrate anapproximate interface between the vane 12B (i.e., the bottom portion 18of the vane 12) and the base plate 14B. In one aspect, the vortexgenerator is defined in part by a cross-sectional plane at theinterface. For instance, at the cross-sectional plane at the interfacebetween the vane 12B and the base plate 14B, a cross-sectional view ofthe vane 12B includes the dart-polygon configuration depicted in FIG.10B.

The base plate 14B serves various functions. For instance, in one aspectthe base plate 14B provides structural rigidity to the bottom portion 18of the vane 12B by coupling one vertex 30 to another vertex 32. In thisrespect, the base plate 14B helps to bridge a gap between these verticesin the concave portion of the vane 12B. In addition, the base plate 14Bhelps to provide an increased surface area for coupling the vortexgenerator 10B to an article.

Referring now to FIGS. 13 and 14, another aspect of a vortex generator10C is illustrated in which a base plate 14C is arranged within theconcave portion of the vane 12C. That is, the base plate 14C extendsbetween the internal walls 48 and 50 and bridges the space therebetween.In one aspect, the vane 12C and the base plate 14C are integrally formedas a single part, such as by co-molding or casting together. Forexample, FIG. 14 illustrates a bottom elevation of the vortex generator10C.

Although the vane 12C and the base 14C might be integrated as a singlepart, FIG. 14 includes a reference line 76, which indicates anapproximate outline of the base plate 14C. That is, lines 78, 80, 82,and 84 are substantially similar to the edges 20, 22, 24, and 26, andthe reference line marks an approximate interface between the vane 12Cand the base plate 14C. In an aspect in which the vane 12C and the baseplate 14C are integrally formed as a single part, there might not be aclear delineation between the two portions, and the reference line 76 isprovided for explanatory purposes. As described above, a base-plateportion 86 bridges a gap between the edges 82 and 84, and correspondingwalls. Thus, the base plate 14C helps to provide some structuralrigidity and increases the surface area usable to attach the vortexgenerator 10C to an article.

In FIG. 14, the reference line 76 illustrates an approximate divisionbetween the base-plate portion 86 and the bottom portion 88 of the vane12C. As illustrated, the bottom portion 88 includes a dart-polygonconfiguration that is substantially similar to the dart-polygonconfiguration depicted in FIG. 10B.

The vortex generators 10B and 10C depicted in FIGS. 11-14 areillustrated to include relatively sharp and non-rounded features. But inother aspects, edges, corners, and vertices, might be rounded withoutdeparting from the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Referring now to FIGS. 15 and 16, an arrangement 800 of vortexgenerators 810A, 810B, and 810C is shown (e.g., star-shapedarrangement). In FIG. 15, the arrangement 800 includes a center point812 and the vortex generators 810A, 810B, and 810C are radiallypositioned around the center point 812. That is, each vortex generatorincludes a respective midline plane 814A, 814B, and 814C, and themidline planes intersect at the center point of the arrangement 800. Assuch, the vortex generators 810A, 810B, and 810C are arranged in a ringaround the center point 812.

The arrangement 800 of vortex generators 810A, 810B, and 810C might beconfigured to include a spacing scheme. For example, each vertex of thevortex generators 810A, 810B, and 810C might be spaced a distance fromthe center point 812. In one aspect, the distance between the centerpoint 812 and each vertex is in a range of about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm.In addition, the spacing scheme might include a substantially evenradial spacing between adjacent vortex generators. For example, in FIG.15, the midline of each adjacent vortex generators might be spaced about120 degrees apart, since there are three vortex generators. In FIG. 15,the arrangement 800 includes three separate vortex generators. In otheraspects, the arrangement of vortex generators might include two vortexgenerators or might include more than three vortex generators. As such,the radial spacing of adjacent vortex generators might be substantiallyequal to 360 degrees divided by the number of vortex generators in thearrangement.

The vortex generators 810A, 810B, and 810C are depicted as independentvortex generators having respective bases and base plates, and thearrangement 800 might be created using a template (e.g., step 714 ofmethod 700). However, in other aspects the vortex generators 810A, 810B,and 810C might be constructed as a single, integrated unit, such thateach base or base plate is connected to one another.

In one aspect, arranging two or more vortex generators radially around amidpoint (as illustrated in FIG. 15) helps to reduce drag of anunderlying article from multiple directions. For example, when a personis running, throwing, etc., his or her arms and legs might be moving inmore than one direction. That is, both arms are often pumped forward andrearward in an alternating fashion. In addition, each leg experiences aforward motion when the leg is extended and a rearward motion when thefoot is pulled up from the ground. By arranging multiple vortexgenerators at different orientations on an article (e.g., arm sleeve,leg sleeve, pant leg, adhesive tape, etc.), which is worn by the personrunning, one vortex generator can help to reduce drag when the armand/or leg is moved in a first direction, whereas another vortexgenerator can help reduce drag when the arm and/or leg is moved in adifferent direction.

In a further aspect, multiple sets of radially arranged vortexgenerators are applied to a surface in a pattern. For example, FIG. 17shows an exemplary arrangement of multiple sets 800A, 800B, and 800C ofvortex generators. In an exemplary aspect, the sets 800A, 800B, and 800Cinclude an arrangement similar to that depicted in FIG. 15. The sets800A, 800B, and 800C might be spaced and aligned using variousstrategies to minimize drag. For example, the respective center points(e.g., 812) might be aligned vertically, horizontally, or diagonally onthe surface, and might be spaced apart by a prescribed distance. Theillustrative pattern depicted in FIG. 17 might be applied to theanterior surface of various types of articles, and in one aspect, isapplied to the outer surface of the anterior side of a calf sleeve.

FIGS. 9-17 depict vortex generators having a dart-shaped configuration,which is utilized in some aspects of the present invention. However,vortex generators having various other configurations might be used inother aspects of the invention, such as those configurations depicted inFIGS. 18A-18N. For instance, FIG. 18A depicts a ring-like donutconfiguration for a vortex generator. FIG. 18B depicts bump-styleconfiguration that is part of a hemisphere. FIG. 18C depicts amulti-sail arrangement, and FIG. 18D depicts a teardrop-shapedconfiguration for a vortex generator. FIG. 18E depicts a frustoconicalconfiguration. FIG. 18F depicts a spherical configuration. FIG. 18Gdepicts a possible paddle configuration. FIG. 18H depicts another styleof dart configuration having a non-curved upper surface. FIG. 18Iincludes a spike or peg configuration. FIG. 18J depicts a upside downpyramid. FIG. 18K depicts a multi-peg configuration. FIG. 18L depicts afin-shaped configuration. FIG. 18M illustrates a dimple configuration.And FIG. 18N shows a ribbed configuration. One or more of thesevortex-generator configurations might be used in one or more aspects ofthe present invention.

Various aspects of the present invention are described in FIGS. 1-18N.One or more of these aspects are usable independently, or are combinableto provide, a system for reducing drag on an object. In one aspect, thesystem includes a first vortex-generator arrangement (e.g., using one ormore of the patterns 120, 122, 124, 126) coupled to a first article(e.g., garment, tape, equipment, etc.), the first vortex-generatorarrangement comprising a first set of vortex generators having a firstsubstantially consistent spacing and a first substantially consistentvortex-generator height. In addition, the system includes a secondvortex-generator arrangement coupled to a second article, the secondvortex-generator arrangement comprising a second set of vortexgenerators having a second substantially consistent spacing and a secondsubstantially consistent vortex-generator height. In a further aspect,the second substantially consistent spacing is different than the firstsubstantially consistent spacing and/or the second vortex-generatorheight is different than the first vortex-generator height.

In another aspect, one or more of the aspects depicted in FIGS. 1-18Nare usable to provide a vortex-generator kit including a first article(e.g. garment, tape, or equipment) having a first vortex-generatorarrangement and a second article having a second vortex-generatorarrangement. The first and second articles are configured to equip oneor more human anatomical zones with vortex generators. The firstvortex-generator arrangement includes a first set of vortex generatorshaving a first substantially consistent spacing and a firstsubstantially consistent vortex-generator height, and the secondvortex-generator arrangement includes a second set of vortex generatorshaving a second substantially consistent spacing and a secondsubstantially consistent vortex-generator height. The first and secondsubstantially consistent spacing and the first and second substantiallyconsistent vortex-generator height are based on a vortex-generatormapping (e.g., one of the mappings 100, 200, 300, or 400).

From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is one welladapted to attain all the ends and objects hereinabove set forthtogether with other advantages, which are inherent to the structure.

It will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are ofutility and may be employed without reference to other features andsubcombinations. This is contemplated by and is within the scope of theclaims.

Since many possible embodiments may be made of the invention withoutdeparting from the scope thereof, it is to be understood that all matterherein set forth or shown in the accompanying drawings is to beinterpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

1. A vortex-generator kit comprising: a first article and a secondarticle; a first vortex-generator arrangement coupled to the firstarticle, the first vortex-generator arrangement comprising a first setof vortex generators having a first substantially consistent spacing anda first substantially consistent vortex-generator height; and a secondvortex-generator arrangement coupled to the second article, the secondvortex-generator arrangement comprising a second set of vortexgenerators having a second substantially consistent spacing and a secondsubstantially consistent vortex-generator height, wherein the secondsubstantially consistent spacing is different than the firstsubstantially consistent spacing, the second vortex-generator height isdifferent than the first vortex-generator height, or any combinationthereof.
 2. The vortex-generator kit of claim 1, wherein the firstarticle includes a pant-type garment and the second article includes ashirt-type garment.
 3. The vortex-generator kit of claim 1, wherein atleast one of the first article or the second article includes an armsleeve or a leg sleeve.
 4. The vortex-generator kit of claim 1, whereinthe first article and the second article include adhesive-tape stripshaving respective vortex-generator arrangements.
 5. The vortex-generatorkit of claim 1, wherein the vortex-generator spacing suggests a firstpositioning of the first vortex-generator arrangement in a first humananatomical zone and a second positioning of the second vortex-generatorarrangement in a second human anatomical zone.
 6. The vortex-generatorkit of claim 1, wherein the first substantially consistent spacing andthe second substantially consistent spacing are gender specific.
 7. Thevortex-generator kit of claim 1, wherein the first article and thesecond article include adhesive-tape strips having respectivevortex-generator arrangements.
 8. A vortex-generator kit comprising: afirst article comprising a first vortex-generator arrangement, whichincludes a first set of vortex generators having a first substantiallyconsistent spacing and a first substantially consistent vortex-generatorheight; and a second article comprising a second vortex-generatorarrangement, which includes a second set of vortex generators having asecond substantially consistent spacing and a second substantiallyconsistent vortex-generator height, wherein the first and secondsubstantially consistent spacing and the first and second substantiallyconsistent vortex-generator height are based on a vortex-generatormapping.
 9. The vortex-generator kit of claim 8, wherein thevortex-generator mapping suggests a first positioning of the firstvortex-generator arrangement in a first human anatomical zone and asecond positioning of the second vortex-generator arrangement in asecond human anatomical zone.
 10. The vortex-generator kit of claim 8,wherein the vortex-generator mapping is gender specific.
 11. Thevortex-generator kit of claim 8, wherein the vortex-generator mapping isbased on relative velocities to which the first human anatomical zoneand the second human anatomical zone are subjected in a running-basedevent.
 12. The vortex-generator kit of claim 8 further comprising, a setof instructions providing suggested relative positions of the firstarticle and the second article when worn by a human.
 13. Thevortex-generator kit of claim 8, wherein the first article is a garmentand the second article is an adhesive-tape strip.
 14. A vortex generatorkit, the kit comprising: a first garment having a first vortex-generatorarrangement, which includes a first set of vortex generators having afirst substantially consistent spacing and a first substantiallyconsistent vortex-generator height; and a second garment having a secondvortex-generator arrangement coupled to the second article, the secondvortex-generator arrangement comprising a second set of vortexgenerators having a second substantially consistent spacing and a secondsubstantially consistent vortex-generator height.
 15. The vortexgenerator kit of claim 14, wherein the second substantially consistentspacing is different than the first substantially consistent spacing.16. The vortex generator kit of claim 14, wherein the secondvortex-generator height is different than the first vortex-generatorheight.
 17. The kit of claim 14, wherein the first article includes apant-type garment and the second article includes a shirt-type garment.18. The vortex-generator kit of claim 14, wherein the first article andthe second article include adhesive-tape strips having respectivevortex-generator arrangements.
 19. The vortex-generator kit of claim 14,wherein at least one of the first article or the second article includesan arm sleeve or a leg sleeve.
 20. The vortex-generator kit of claim 14,wherein the first substantially consistent spacing and the secondsubstantially consistent spacing are gender specific.